Kathmandu, September 23

The two largest umbrella bodies of the private sector have urged government, leading political parties and agitating groups in the Tarai, to resolve the dispute through dialogue to preserve the gains made through the promulgation of the new constitution.

“We sincerely request both the sides to shed their stubbornness and address the discontentment of people so that recent political gains can be kept intact,” says a statement issued today by the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), the largest private sector umbrella organisation.

“In this regard, the government, and major political and protesting parties should resolve the issue through dialogue. This will protect the country’s interest.”

The Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) has said that it was confident that the new constitution would help restore sustained peace in the country and lead to betterment of the industrial sector.

“But bandhs and protests, especially in Birgunj, Biratnagar and Bhairahawa, in the name of delineation of federal states have worried entrepreneurs and industrialists,” says a CNI statement issued today.

In addition, obstruction in movement of vehicles created by the disgruntled faction has affected supplies of various goods, and possibilities of further deterioration in the supply situation cannot be ruled out, the statement further says, adding, “Since the problems are political in nature, they should be dealt with at the political level.”

FNCCI has urged concerned parties to work towards ending protests and lift curfew to ensure smooth movement of vehicles. It has asked everyone not to spread rumours with intention of creating panic too.